When self-discipline is weak or non-existent, frustration sets in. What results is what we commonly refer to as a “rut.” When we do not understand the process, we wallow in inconsistency. If prolonged, this inconsistency turns to self-disgust. Learning self-discipline will change your life – it may not be the catalyst you remember the most, but it will be pretty close. Self-discipline …
Read More »The Importance of Charitable Giving (and How You Can Help)
Christmas will be here in a few days, and with that, a time for me to reflect on the true meaning of the holidays and gift giving – specifically, charitable giving. This Christmas, my girlfriend and I decided to keep gifts under $50. We also plan to spend a day volunteering at a local soup kitchen. Unlike most of my possession-driven companions, …
Read More »Why a Chip on Your Shoulder is Mandatory for Success
You need a chip on your shoulder to maximize self-discipline and consistency. Without an intrinsic purpose, attention to detail wavers and eventually ceases. The reason why we give up so quickly is because we do not have a strong enough purpose to stay the course, especially when complications arise. There are days where we might not feel like doing anything. That …
Read More »Learning From Squirrels: Three Traits to Embody
Squirrels are cast as a disruptive, invasive species that serves no purpose. But they are remarkably misunderstood. Let me explain. I’ve learned that squirrels are crafty creatures we can learn a thing or two from. Being in the city, I see squirrels all the time. Perhaps a moment of serendipity, I focused on this one squirrel the other day on my way to the gym. The …
Read More »Conquer Thy Body: 5 Workout Enhancements to Build Lasting Muscle
This is Part III of a three-part series on understanding the fundamentals of a successful workout program. My goal is to help you avoid the common pitfalls in a world of false information. I will break down concepts using scientific reasoning and evidence, so you know exactly what you need to do to maximize your time and effort in the gym. (Part I and …
Read More »Conquer Thy Body: The Simple Science of Muscle Growth
This is Part II (read Part I here) of a three-part series on understanding the fundamentals of a successful workout program. My goal is to help you avoid the common pitfalls in a world of false information. I will break down concepts using scientific reasoning and evidence, so you know exactly what you need to do to maximize your time and effort in the …
Read More »Conquer Thy Body: Avoiding Bad Fitness Advice (Two Books to Trust)
This is Part I of a three-part series on understanding the fundamentals of a successful workout program. My goal is to help you avoid the common pitfalls in a world of false information. I will break down concepts using scientific reasoning and evidence, so you know exactly what you need to do to maximize your time and effort in the gym. I’m obsessed with …
Read More »Stoicism and Death: Making Sense of Our Eventual Demise
Everyone dies. It is the end of all and can be a mortifying thought. I used to think about death a lot. I would get stuck, often thinking about a large black void on repeat. I told myself over and over, “the day will come where I no longer exist. I will be nothing.” Dwelling on our eventual death is unhealthy and a poor …
Read More »Becoming One with the Cold: My HIIT Contrast Shower Routine
“The cold makes you go within.” -Wim Hof One of my 2015 goals was to incorporate cold shower therapy into my daily routine. I had recently found Wim Hof and became mesmerized by his interviews where he discussed his rare accomplishments through the mastery of cold water therapy and controlled breathing. I was impressed with the logic behind his actions and wanted to embrace the cold. So …
Read More »How to Make Envy Work for You
Envy is a complicated, often misunderstood emotion. Envy can be destructive if you lack the proper frame. If you are constantly resentful of what others have, you are struggling with a fleeting sense of self-worth. This can be anything from material possessions to someone’s personal success, lifestyle, physical qualities, relationships, etc. If you let envy dominate your life it will ruin …
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